Apple releases major software updates across iOS 27 and other platforms

Apple has started rolling out major software updates across iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 27 and visionOS 27. The releases introduce a new version of Siri AI, child-safety tools and changes across everyday apps.

Siri AI is rolling out in beta in English. French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish support is scheduled for October. The assistant can use personal context, understand onscreen content, search the web and take actions in apps.

A Siri mode in the iPhone Camera app can provide information about objects in view and carry out actions. Siri can also generate or refine text from a description, while a dedicated app syncs conversation history privately through iCloud across devices.

New parental controls

A redesigned child-account setup flow lets parents choose which apps are available from the start. Ask to Browse can require approval before a child opens a new website, while Communication Safety now also detects and blocks graphic or violent content in shared images and videos.

Screen Time adds an overview of average device use and top apps. Parents can set daily limits for Entertainment, Games and Social Media categories and schedule when children can access apps.

Changes across Apple apps

Photos adds Spatial Reframing, Extend and an upgraded Clean Up tool. Image Playground supports image creation in multiple styles, while metadata can help identify content generated or edited with AI.

Safari can organize tabs by topic, notify users about website changes and create custom extensions from a description. Health adds perimenopause and menopause tracking, while iCloud Shared Albums support full-resolution photo and video sharing and contributions from Android and Windows users.

The updates also add custom EQ for AirPods, expanded Apple GymKit functionality, enhanced Flyover visuals in Maps, Smart Stack suggestions and a one-handed tap gesture on Apple Watch. Apple TV gains high-resolution lossless Apple Music audio, a redesigned Podcasts app and broader text-size accessibility options.

Siri AI availability limits

Siri AI and other Apple Intelligence features require supported products set to a supported language. In the European Union, Siri AI will initially be available on Mac and Apple Vision Pro but not on iOS, iPadOS or watchOS; it will not initially be available in China while Apple addresses regulatory requirements.

Apple says server-side Apple Intelligence features may have daily usage limits. Siri AI is unavailable to users under 13, and individual features depend on region, language and local regulations.